Here at Smilessence, we offer a comprehensive range of treatments that improve oral health and give our patients the smile they have always wanted. One of these treatments is dental implantation from our dentist in Molesey. Here, we explain what is involved and the type of patient that is a good candidate for implants. We also highlight some of the benefits that can be expected when replacing the teeth in this manner.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants from our dentist in Molesey are a means of correcting the issue of missing teeth. Tooth loss can occur to people at any age. Whether a patient has lost just one, two or even several teeth, there is almost always a dip in their confidence. They may feel nervous about smiling and feel anxious about their appearance. This can have an impact on all areas of life, including socialising, succeeding at work and even finding a romantic partner.
Dental implants from our dentist in Molesey provide a solution to these issues and can dramatically improve a person’s quality of life. They are a way to substitute the original roots of the teeth and are made from titanium. Titanium is a type of metal that works very well to support human tissue and is used for replacing or supporting broken bones as well as for dental purposes.
How do they work?
Implants are placed into the jawbone in a procedure that is performed here at the surgery. The patient remains awake while this is happening, but does not experience any discomfort as we administer a local anaesthetic. This completely numbs the mouth so that the patient can relax as we do our work.
Once the procedure has been completed, there is a healing period that lasts around three weeks. Painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen can keep any discomfort at bay during that time. Once the gums have healed, we then position abutments onto the implants. These provide a base on which the new artificial teeth can be secured.
Who is a good candidate?
Many patients who suffer from tooth loss can have this resolved using dental implants. However, it is important that the jawbone is in good health before getting started. We conduct an assessment to check this before deciding to proceed, but if the tissues are not as healthy as they should be then the patient is not necessarily ruled out of getting implants. In some cases, bone grafting can provide a solution that allows us to go ahead.
How long do they last?
Their durability and longevity are two of the biggest advantages of having teeth replaced using implants. The metal that is used can be relied on to provide a permanent base for the new teeth that is reliable and completely stable. Implants last for many years and often for the lifetime of the patient. This means that once treatment is complete and providing the patient takes good care of their oral health, they should not need to visit us any more often than a patient who has retained all their natural teeth.
